Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) and NGK INSULATORS, LTD. (NGK) are joining forces to develop a cutting-edge hydrogen purification system. This system will utilize membrane separation technology to purify hydrogen extracted from a hydrogen-nitrogen mixture following ammonia cracking, aiming to enhance the hydrogen and ammonia supply chain for large-scale transport.
The collaboration leverages MHI’s extensive experience in ammonia plant operations and handling ammonia and hydrogen technologies, along with NGK’s expertise in subnano ceramic membrane technology and innovative film deposition techniques. These technologies are pivotal in creating membranes that are both highly accurate in separation and robust, contributing to NGK’s reputation for producing the world’s largest ceramic membranes.
This project is particularly timely as ammonia is increasingly recognized as a viable hydrogen carrier, allowing for the safe, large-volume transport of hydrogen over long distances. Both in Europe and Japan, initiatives like the “Fuel Ammonia Supply Chain Establishment” project are underway, forecasting significant market growth.
MHI is committed to its Energy Transition strategy, targeting decarbonization of the energy supply to achieve Carbon Neutrality by 2040. The development of this hydrogen purification system from ammonia cracking gas is a strategic step towards establishing a robust hydrogen and ammonia supply chain, accelerating the deployment of decarbonization technologies.
NGK is also deeply invested in contributing to a carbon-neutral society through its “Carbon Neutrality Strategic Roadmap,” which includes advancing hydrogen and Carbon dioxide Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies. By harnessing its pioneering ceramic technology, NGK aims to overcome previous technological challenges and implement crucial devices in societal infrastructure.
